Systems for Determining Animal Metrics and Related Devices and Methods

ABSTRACT

In some aspects, an animal positioning system can include a positioning member positioned relative to a datum structure, the positioning member being configured to limit an available spacing along a floor surface between the positioning member and the datum structure, the positioning member being arranged at an angular bias away from the datum structure relative to a floor surface and being configured to permit unobstructed viewing of a body of an animal positioned in the available spacing.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/832,109 filed Mar. 15, 2013, entitled “Systems forDetermining Animal Metrics and Related Devices and Methods,” whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/656,057 filed Jun. 6, 2012, entitled “Method and System forDetermining Livestock Metrics,” U.S. Patent Application Ser. No.61/655,303 filed Jun. 4, 2012 entitled “Determining Weight of an AnimalBased on an Image,” and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/751,528filed Jan. 11, 2013, entitled “Method and System for Determining andDisplaying Livestock Metrics.” This application is also acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/832,186filed Mar. 15, 2013, entitled “Method and System for Determining andDisplaying Livestock Metrics.” The contents of these applications arehereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates generally to livestock management, and moreparticularly to systems for determining animal (e.g., livestock animals)metrics and related devices and methods.

BACKGROUND

Various chute systems are utilized on farms for directing or positioninganimals to measure animal characteristics (e.g., size or weight) and tosort animals based upon the measured characteristics. Selection ofparticular sorting pens for animals exiting the chute system, based onthe measurements obtained within the chute system, can be used to placeindividual animals with particular, measured characteristics and knowninformation into a sorting pen with other animals having similarcharacteristics. Sorting the animals in this way can enable a feedlotmanager to apply various regimens of feed, growth fluids, and the liketo particular animals or groups of animals depending on their age,breed, sex, skeletal structure, or other characteristics. That is,animals sorted into various groups can be fed similar (or the same)rations so that they efficiently and effectively obtain substantiallythe same tissue composition. In certain conventional systems, chutes caninclude a weight scale in the floor adapted for use with an existingweight scale.

SUMMARY

In some aspects, a livestock animal chute can include a frame structure;an animal positioning area defined by: a datum structure; and a sidewallof the frame structure disposed relative to the datum structure, thesidewall being angled relative to a floor surface to enable a field ofview of the animal positioning area; an animal detection systemconfigured to determine when an animal is positioned in the animalpositioning area; an imaging system positioned relative to the framestructure configured to capture an image of an animal in the animalpositioning area; and a control system configured to i) operate theimaging system and the animal detection system and ii) estimate a weightof the animal based on the image captured by the imaging system.

In some aspects, an animal positioning system can include a positioningmember positioned relative to a datum structure, the positioning memberbeing configured to limit an available spacing along a floor surfacebetween the positioning member and the datum structure, the positioningmember being arranged at an angular bias away from the datum structurerelative to a floor surface and being configured to permit unobstructedviewing of a body of an animal positioned in the available spacing.

Embodiments can include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the positioning system is configured to permit theanimal to voluntarily enter and exit the available spacing. In someembodiments, the positioning system is open-ended. In some cases, thepositioning system is open-ended at two ends.

In some embodiments, the datum structure includes a first wall structureand the positioning member includes a second wall structure. In somecases, the second wall structure is positioned at an angular bias awayfrom the first wall structure relative to the floor surface to permitthe unobstructed viewing of the body of the animal positioned in theavailable spacing. In some cases, the second wall structure includes aplate-like element configured to limit the animal from traversing thesecond wall structure. In some cases, the angular bias includes thesecond wall structure being arranged at an angle that is 100 degrees to145 degrees relative to the floor surface. In some cases, the angularbias includes the second wall structure being arranged at an angle thatis 120 degrees to 135 degrees relative to the floor surface. In somecases, a positioning of a lower region of the first sidewall relative toa lower region of the second sidewall limits more than one animal fromentering the chute system at a particular time. In some cases, a spacingbetween the lower region of the first sidewall and the lower region ofthe second sidewall is associated with a typical width of a type ofanimal entering the chute system. In some cases, the positioning of thelower portion of the first sidewall relative to the lower portion of thesecond sidewall limits the animal's ability to position itself relativeto an imaging device of the positioning system.

In some embodiments, the positioning system includes an imaging systemconfigured to capture an image of the body of the animal positioned inthe available spacing via the unobstructed viewing. In some cases, thepositioning system includes a control system in communication with theimaging system. In some cases, the positioning system includes an animaldetection system configured to determine that the animal is positionedin the available spacing for imaging by the imaging system. In somecases, the animal detection system includes one or more components ofthe imaging system. In some cases, the animal detection system includesa device configured to be activated by the animal feeding from thedevice.

In some embodiments, the positioning system includes an animalidentification system configured to identify the animal positioned inthe available spacing based on an identifying feature associated withthe animal. In some cases, the animal identification system includes awireless data reading device.

In some embodiments, the positioning system includes an animal injectionsystem configured to administer a substance to the animal.

In some embodiments, the positioning system includes an animal markingsystem configured to apply a mark to the animal associated with acharacteristic of the animal. In some cases, the animal marking systemincludes a device configured to apply an identifying marking to theanimal. In some cases, the device configured to apply the identifyingmarking includes a printer device.

In some embodiments, the datum structure can include a secondpositioning member biased away from the first positioning member.

In some aspects, a method for estimating a characteristic associatedwith an animal can include determining the animal's presence within atarget area of an animal positioning system having a datum structure anda positioning member positioned relative to the datum structure, thepositioning member being arranged at an angular bias away from the datumstructure relative to a floor surface and being configured to permitunobstructed viewing of a body of an animal positioned in the availablespacing; responsive to determining the animal's presence within thetarget area, capturing an image of the animal; and processing the imageto estimate the characteristic associated with the animal.

Embodiments can include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the characteristic includes a weight of the animal.

In some embodiments, the method includes identifying the animalaccording to identifying information associated with the animal.

In some embodiments, the method includes, responsive to determining thatthe characteristic meets a threshold characteristic level, administeringa substance to the animal. In some cases, administering a substanceincludes injecting the animal with a substance.

In some embodiments, the method includes, responsive to determining thatthe characteristic meets a threshold characteristic level, applying anidentifying mark to the animal.

In some aspects, an animal positioning system can include a firstpositioning member; and a second positioning member positioned relativeto the first positioning member configured to limit an available spacingalong a floor surface between the first positioning member and thesecond positioning member, the second positioning member being arrangedat an angular bias away from the first positioning member relative to afloor surface and being configured to permit unobstructed viewing of abody of an animal (e.g., a livestock animal) positioned in the availablespacing.

Embodiments can include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the positioning system is configured to permit theanimal to voluntarily enter and exit the available spacing. In somecases, the positioning system can be open-ended.

In some embodiments, the first positioning member includes a first wallstructure and the second positioning member includes a second wallstructure. In some cases, the second wall structure is positioned at anangular bias away from the first wall structure relative to the floorsurface to permit the unobstructed viewing of the body of the animalpositioned in the available spacing. In some cases, the second wallstructure includes a plate-like element configured to limit the animalfrom traversing the second wall structure. In some cases, the angularbias includes the second wall structure being arranged at an angle thatis 100 degrees to 145 degrees relative to the floor surface. Forexample, the angular bias can include the second wall structure beingarranged at an angle that is 120 degrees to 135 degrees relative to thefloor surface.

In some embodiments, a positioning of a lower region of the firstsidewall relative to a lower region of the second sidewall limits morethan one animal from entering the chute system at a particular time. Insome cases, a spacing between the lower region of the first sidewall andthe lower region of the second sidewall is associated with a typicalwidth of a type of animal entering the chute system. In some cases, thepositioning of the lower portion of the first sidewall relative to thelower portion of the second sidewall limits the animal's ability toposition itself relative to an imaging device of the positioning system.In some cases, the animal's limited ability to position itself relativeto the imaging device enables the imaging device to capture anunobstructed side view image the body of the animal.

In some embodiments, the animal positioning system also includes animaging system configured to capture an image (e.g., a three dimensionalimage) of the body of the animal positioned in the available spacing viathe unobstructed viewing. In some cases, the animal positioning systemalso includes a control system in communication with the imaging system.In some embodiments, the animal positioning system also includes ananimal detection system configured to determine that the animal ispositioned in the available spacing for imaging by the imaging system.In some cases, the animal detection system includes one or morecomponents of the imaging system. In some cases, the animal detectionsystem includes a device configured to be activated by the animalfeeding from the device.

In some embodiments, the animal positioning system also includes ananimal identification system configured to identify the animalpositioned in the available spacing based on an identifying featureassociated with the animal. In some cases, the animal identificationsystem includes a wireless data reading device. In some cases, thewireless data reading device comprises a device to read data from anRFID tag.

In some embodiments, the animal positioning system also includes ananimal injection system configured to administer a substance to theanimal.

In some embodiments, the animal positioning system also includes ananimal marking system configured to apply a mark to the animalassociated with a characteristic of the animal. In some cases, theanimal marking system includes a device configured to apply anidentifying marking to the animal. In some cases, the device configuredto apply the identifying marking includes a printer device.

In some aspects, a livestock animal chute can include a frame structure;an animal positioning area defined by: i) a first sidewall of the framestructure; and ii) a second sidewall of the frame structure disposedrelative to the first sidewall, the second sidewall being angledrelative to a floor surface to enable a field of view of the animalpositioning area; an animal detection system configured to determinewhen an animal is positioned in the animal positioning area; an imagingsystem positioned relative to the frame structure configured to capturean image of an animal in the animal positioning area; and a controlsystem configured to i) operate the imaging system and the animaldetection system and ii) estimate a weight of the animal based on theimage captured by the imaging system.

In some aspects, a method for estimating a characteristic associatedwith an animal (e.g., a livestock animal) can include determining theanimal's presence within a target area of an animal positioning systemhaving a first positioning member and a second positioning member;responsive to determining the animal's presence within the target area,capturing an image of the animal; and processing the image to estimatethe characteristic associated with the animal.

Embodiments can include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the characteristic includes a weight of the animal.

In some embodiments, the second positioning member is arranged at anangular bias away from the first positioning member relative to a floorsurface.

In some embodiments, the method also includes identifying the animalaccording to identifying information associated with the animal.

In some embodiments, the method also includes, responsive to determiningthat the characteristic meets a threshold characteristic level,administering a substance to the animal. In some cases, administering asubstance includes injecting the animal with a substance.

In some embodiments, the method also includes, responsive to determiningthat the characteristic meets a threshold characteristic level, applyingan identifying mark to the animal. In some cases, applying theidentifying mark includes applying a barcode mark.

“Animals” as used herein can include any of various members of theanimal kingdom including, but are not limited to, livestock animals(e.g., cattle, swine, sheep, goats, birds including chicken, duck orturkey, or other animals), other wild animals, such as those that caninhabit zoos (e.g., felines (e.g., lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, orother feline animals), wild dogs (e.g., foxes, dingoes, wolves, coyotes,jackals, or other types of wild dogs), ungulates (e.g., pigs, horses,zebras, giraffes, deer, antelope, gazelles, moose, or other ungulate(e.g., hooved) animals), primates (e.g., monkeys, chimpanzees,orangutans, gorillas, or other primate animals), birds (e.g., ostriches,emus, gamebirds, waterfowls, penguins, flamingos, storks, herons, birdsof prey, or other types of birds)), domesticated animals including catsand dogs, or any of various other animals including different types ofbears, rhinos, hippopotamus, elephants, kangaroos, or various othertypes of animals.

In some aspects, the chute system includes a control wall having ananimal feeder and an animal presence indicator, a substantially verticalwall adjacent to the control wall, an angled wall opposite the verticalwall and adjacent the control wall, an imaging device having afield-of-view substantially unobstructed by the angled wall, an openingconfigured for animal entrance and exit, and a control systemcommunicatively connected to the animal presence indicator and theimaging device, and configured to control the imaging device based uponinformation communicated by the animal presence indicator.

Embodiments can include one or more of the following advantages.

In some embodiments, the chute systems described herein can permiteffective and accurate animal characteristic detection (e.g., estimationor prediction) in a manner that is less expensive and/or more efficientthan certain other chute systems. For example, chute systems havingscales can be expensive and inefficient as the scales can require a timedelay (e.g., a delay to zero the sinusoidal movement of the scale). Suchextra time needed to capture an accurate weight measurement can resultin animals (e.g., pigs) entering and exiting a chute without the weightaccurately being measured. That is, even if an animal stops on a scale,minor movements of the animal (e.g., as if the animal shifts its weightand moves on top of the scale) can shift and alter a weight reading,resulting in an inaccurate measurement. Further, scales can becomecorroded (e.g., corroded with farm debris), rendering increasinglyinaccurate measurements, which can result in incorrect or inaccurateanimal sorting. Some of these problems can be alleviated using thesystems and methods described herein.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the systems and methods describedherein enable animal characteristic detection (e.g., estimation orprediction) in a manner than is less expensive and/or more efficientthan certain other systems utilizing visual techniques (e.g., camerasystems). In some cases, as a result of the chute systems describedherein being able to consistently direct (e.g., position) an animalwithin the chute system, less expensive or more efficient visual systems(e.g., camera and visual software systems) can be used to determine theanimal's weight.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top, schematic view of an example chute system forconsistently positioning an animal for determining and measuring metricsassociated with the animal.

FIG. 2 is a front, schematic view of the chute system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example chute system having multipleimaging systems.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an example animal detection system havinga feeder switch disposed on a wall of a chute system.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an example control system for operatingan example chute system.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another example chute system forconsistent positioning and imaging of an animal.

FIG. 7 is an alternative perspective view of the chute system of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is an alternative perspective view of the chute system of FIG. 7illustrating a field of view of an imaging system of the chute system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some aspects, the chute systems described herein can typically enableconsistent and repeatable positioning of an animal so that an image(e.g., a three-dimensional image) can be taken of the animal todetermine any of a variety of characteristic metrics of the animal(e.g., weight).

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, an animal positioning system (e.g., a chutesystem) 100 for positioning an animal (e.g., a livestock animal, such asa pig, a cow, or another animal) for analysis (e.g., determining andmeasuring metrics associated with an animal) can be a closed-endedchute. That is, the chute system 100 can be configured to allow ananimal (e.g., only one animal) 50 to voluntarily enter and stand withinthe chute system for analysis and then exit the chute system (e.g.,after being analyzed). For example, the animal can typically enter andexit the chute system through one (only one) entryway.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, the chute system 100 includes aframe structure that is formed of a generally rectangular frameworkhaving one or more wall structures including a datum structure (e.g., afirst sidewall 102), a positioning member (e.g., a second sidewall) 104,and an end, control wall 106 disposed at an end of the chute system thatgenerally forms an end boundary between the first sidewall 102 and thesecond sidewall 104. That is, in some aspects, the first sidewall 102 isused as a datum structure along which the animal can be positionedwithin the chute system, and the other components of the chute systemare positioned relative to the datum structure for properly positioningand imaging the animal. Use of such a datum structure in this mannerhelps to more easily and more consistently position the animal withinthe chute system. However, in some aspects, the chute system does notinclude an end wall 106. That is, in some cases, the chute system can bea double open-ended chute (e.g., a walk-through chute open at two ends)to permit an animal to walk through the datum structure and the secondsidewall 104. For example, in some cases, the chute system defines awalkway for animals to walk through and be analyzed.

A chute entryway 108 is positioned at an end of the chute system 100opposite the control wall 106 so that animals can enter and exit thechute system 100. In some embodiments, the entryway 108 includes a doorconfigured to open manually or automatically (e.g., when an animalapproaches the chute system 100). Alternatively, in some embodiments,the entryway 108 is in the form of an opening (i.e., without a door)through which the animals can enter and exit the chute system 100. Insome cases, another opening (e.g., an exit) can be arranged opposite theentryway.

The frame structure can be of various sizes based on the type of animalswith which the chute system will be used. For example, for some types ofpigs, the frame structure can be about 20 inches wide (i.e., theentryway 108 can be about 20 inches wide) and about two feet tall.

The second sidewall 104 typically includes a visual analysis system(e.g., an imaging system) 110 attached thereto for analyzing an animalpositioned within the chute system 100. As discussed herein, the imagingsystem 110 can be configured to capture an image of the animal in orderto determine characteristics of the animal (e.g., size or weight of theanimal).

As illustrated, particularly with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3, the secondsidewall 104 is typically angled (i.e., angled away from the firstsidewall 102) to enable the imaging system 110 to better capture a sideview of the animal. For example, the second sidewall 104 is angled sothat a lower portion of the second sidewall 104 can be positioned closeenough to a lower portion of the first sidewall 102 to properly positionthe animal, for example, by limiting (e.g., restricting) the availablefloor space on which the animal can stand within the chute system 100.That is, when an animal walks into the entryway 108, the spacing betweenthe lower portion of the second sidewall 104 and the lower portion ofthe first sidewall 102 (or other datum structure as described in detailbelow) directs or guides (e.g., as a result of the limited floor space)into a consistent, desired location that is preferred for imaging theanimal. As discussed below, the consistent positioning of animals withinthe chute system 100 by the second sidewall 104 can help to enable theimaging system 110 to consistently capture images of different animalsso that the different animals can be compared to one another (e.g., forfurther processing). For example, in some embodiments, the spacingbetween the lower portion of the first sidewall and the lower portion ofthe second sidewall is about 10 inches to about 24 inches (e.g., about12 inches to about 18 inches), depending on the type of animal withwhich the chute system is being used. As discussed below, in someembodiments in which the chute system is used to position pigs, thespacing between the lower portion of the first sidewall and the lowerportion of the second sidewall is about 12 inches to about 16 inches(e.g., about 14 inches to about 15 inches (e.g., about 14.19 inches)).

The second sidewall 104 is typically sloped (e.g., sloped at an angle αrelative to the spacing on which the animal is intended to stand) sothat while the lower portion of the sidewall 104 remains closer to thedatum structure (e.g., first sidewall 102) to position the animal asdescribed above, an upper portion of the second sidewall 104 is angledaway from the animal so that it is substantially out of thefield-of-view of the imaging system 110. Since it can be useful for theimaging system 110 generally used to capture a side view image of mostof the animal (e.g., a full side view of the body of the animal) (and insome cases, also a top view image of the animal) for further processing,the angled orientation of the second sidewall 104 can be helpful toallow the imaging system 110 have a generally unobstructed field-of-viewof the animal to capture substantially all of a side view of an animal'sbody while limiting (e.g., preventing) the animal from traversing thesecond sidewall 104. In other words, in some cases, animals are widerabove their legs and the angled second sidewall 104 helps to keep theanimal positioned in a consistent (e.g., predictable) location relativeto the first sidewall 102 (e.g., or other datum structure as discussedbelow) while also accommodating the wider upper region of the animal. Insome embodiments, the second sidewall 104 is disposed at an angle α thatis between about 100 degrees and about 145 degrees with respect to afloor surface. In some cases, the imaging system 110 can be located in aposition that is closer to the top of the chute system. As discussedbelow, additionally or alternatively, additional imaging systems can beused so that one of the imaging systems provides a view that the otherimaging system cannot see (e.g., a top view to compliment a side view).Such a configuration is expected to capture a more complete threedimensional image of the animal positioned within the chute system. Thesecond imaging system is typically positioned on top of the chute systemto capture a top view of the animal.

The height of the angled second sidewall 104 can be adapted for use withparticular livestock animals. For example, cattle may require a greaterheight, while swine could use a lower height. In some embodiments, theangled second sidewall 104 has a height greater than a common height ofthe livestock with which the chute system 100 is used. In someembodiments, the second sidewall 104 has a height that is about 12inches to about 48 inches (e.g., about 16 inches to about 24 inches).For example, in some embodiments in which the chute system is used toposition pigs, the height of the second sidewall is about 12 inches toabout 24 inches (e.g., about 16 inches to about 20 inches (e.g., about18.79 inches)) and the second sidewall is positioned at an angle α thatis about 120 degrees to about 135 degrees (e.g., about 128 degrees).

The structural wall components of the chute system 100 (e.g., the firstsidewall 102, the second sidewall 104, and the end wall 106) can be invarious forms or structural configurations. For example, in someembodiments, one or more of the wall components can be in the form of aframe-like structure comprising one or more beam-like members (e.g.,tubes) that are interconnected with one another to form a wall. Forexample, in some embodiments, the chute system includes one or more wallcomponents formed of multiple pieces of tubing fastened or otherwisejoined to one another (e.g., welded or connected using adhesives).Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, one or more of thewall components (e.g., the first sidewall 102 in FIG. 3) can includefencing material 103 that can help limit (e.g., prevent) animals fromleaving the chute system via the first sidewall 102). Examples ofsuitable fencing material can include chain-link fencing, wire fencing,such as smooth wire fencing, barbed wire fencing, electric fencing,welded wire mesh fencing, woven wire fencing (e.g., fine wire meshfencing like chicken wire or heavy wire mesh fencing like sheep fencingor ring fencing), or other types of fencing. Alternatively oradditionally, one or more of the wall components can be formed ofgenerally flat, planar plate-like wall members (e.g., substantiallyrigid sheet-like members). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, in someembodiments, the second sidewall 104 is formed of a substantially rigidsheet-like member. In particular, the second sidewall 104 can be formedof a sheet-like member to limit (e.g., prevent) the animal fromtraversing (e.g., climbing up or over) the second sidewall 104. Examplesof suitable sheet-like members can include wood (e.g., plywood), sheetmetal (e.g., flat sheet metal or corrugated sheet metal), plastic (e.g.,rigid plastic materials), or members formed of multiple pieces (e.g.,slats) of one or more of these materials that are interconnected to oneanother.

The chute system 100 can also include an animal anti-loitering device,which can include one or more devices or components that limit (e.g.,prevent) an animal from remaining within the chute system 100 forextended periods of time (e.g., substantially longer time than requiredto determine characteristics associate with the animal). Various typesof devices can be used to limit an animal from excessively loitering inthe chute system. As discussed below, in some cases, the anti-loiteringdevice can be in the form of a piece of material (e.g., a strip-likepiece of material) fastened to the floor or ground on which the chutesystem is positioned. The piece of material can discourage an animalfrom wanting to lay down between the first and second sidewall sincethere would be less floor space for the animal to fit while theanti-loitering device could additionally apply safe levels of discomfortto the animal over elongated time periods. In some aspects, theanti-loitering device can serve as the datum structure. Alternatively oradditionally, the anti-loitering device can include other types ofdevices, such as electrical, electromagnetic, mechanical, and/orthermomechanical devices. For example, in some examples, an auditorydevice can emit a sound wave to encourage the animal to leave the chutesystem. Alternatively or additionally, in some examples, a lightingdevice (e.g., a flashlight) can emit light into the chute system toencourage the animal to leave the chute system.

The chute system 100 also includes various components and devices withwhich the animal can interact within the chute system 100. For example,referring to FIG. 1, the chute system 100 can include one or more of ananimal detection system 120, an animal identification system 140, ananimal marking system 160, and an animal injection system (e.g., anautomatic or semi-automatic injection system) 180. The various systemsand devices within the chute system are typically in communication witha control system 200 that can operate the various systems to control thechute system 100.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, the animal detection system 120 istypically arranged within the chute system 100 (i.e., far into the chutebeyond the entryway 108) to reduce the likelihood that the animaldetection system 120 can be inadvertently activated by an animal thatpasses by the chute system 100 but does not fully enter the chute.However, in some embodiments, the detection system 120 can be located atany of various locations along the chute system 100 that enable suitabledetection of the animals within the chute system 100.

The animal detection system 120 can include any of various systems anddevices that are configured to detect that an animal is present withinthe chute system. For example, referring to FIG. 4, in some embodiments,the animal detection system 120 includes a feeder switch 122 that, whenan animal enters the chute system and begins to feed (e.g., drink wateror consume a food product), the feeder switch 122 can be triggered tosend a signal to the control system 200 to indicate that an animal hasentered the chute system 100 and processing of the animal can begin.

The feeder switch 122 can be configured to activate and send a signal tothe control system 200 as a result of the animal entering the chutesystem and feeding from any of various different sources includingdrinking water or consuming a liquid or solid food source. For example,as illustrated in FIG. 4, the feeder switch 122 can be in the form of aliquid flow switch that is connected to an animal feeder (e.g., a liquiddrinking nipple) 126 and can be in fluid communication with a liquidline (e.g., tubing) 128 connected to a liquid source (e.g., a watersource). Using the animal detection system 120, when the animal entersthe chute and drinks from the animal feeder 126, fluid begins to flowthrough the liquid line 128, which activates the feeder switch 122 sothat a signal is sent to the control system 200. Once the animaldetection system 120 indicates to the control system 200 that an animalis present within the chute system 100, the control system 200 caninitiate any number of metric measuring routines, such as determiningthe animal's weight using the information obtained by the imaging system110. Additionally or alternatively, the animal marking system 160 or theanimal injection system 180 can also be used after presence of theanimal is detected.

Alternatively or additionally, the animal detection system 120 caninclude any of various other types of devices that can suitably detector determine the presence of an animal and indicate the same to thecontrol system 200. For example, in some embodiments, the animaldetection system 120 includes a proximity sensor, an infrared sensor, amotion detector, or other suitable devices that, upon detection of ananimal within the chute system, can be activated to send a signal to thecontrol system 200.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the animal detectionsystem 120 can include at least one device configured to view the chutesystem 100 and visually determine when an animal has entered the chute.For example, as discussed below, the imaging system 110 can be used todetermine when an animal has entered the chute.

In some embodiments, a temperature sensor 130 is alternatively oradditionally disposed on the control wall 106 to measure an animal'stemperature (e.g., the animal's internal body temperature). Asillustrated, in some examples, the temperature sensor 130 is arrangedjust below the animal feeder 126 along the control wall 106. Thetemperature sensor 130 can be in the form of any of various knowntemperature measuring devices that are configured to measure an animal'stemperature noninvasively. Examples of such temperature sensors caninclude an infrared-based temperature sensing device.

The imaging system 110 can include any of various imaging devices thatcan suitably capture one or more images of the animal in the chutesystem. In some embodiments, the imaging system 110 can include astereoscopic imaging device configured to capture multiple images (e.g.,in some cases simultaneously) of the animal arranged within the chutesystem positioned using the first sidewall 102 and the second sidewall104. For example, the imaging system 110 can include one or more of astereoscopic video camera, charged-coupled-devices (CCD), a photodiodearray, a complimentary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) optical sensor,a still photographic camera, a digital camera, a conventional2-dimension camera, or another type of imaging device.

In some cases, the imaging system 110 can include one or more of anynumber of filtering or lens controlling mechanisms. For example, anadapted lens can be used to limit the vertical and horizontalfield-of-view of the imaging system, thereby manipulating (e.g.,optimizing) an image area for image processing (e.g., for determiningweight of the animal). The imaging system 110 can also include autopositioning and focusing systems or additional processing systems forperforming image analysis including hardware components (e.g., an imageprocessor) and/or software.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 2, the imaging system 110includes a lighting device 112 to illuminate the field-of-view of theimaging system 110. The lighting device 112 is typically arranged toilluminate a broadside of the animal (e.g., the side view of the animal)when the animal is positioned within the chute system 100, for example,while feeding from the animal feeder 126. The lighting device 112 caninclude one or more of any various systems or devices configured to emitsuitable light to illuminate the animal. For example, the lightingdevice 112 can include a linear array of lights, such as an array ofmonochromatic light emitting diodes (LEDs) with diffusers. In someembodiments, the lighting device 112 is alternatively or additionallydisposed on the first sidewall 102, opposite the imaging system 110.Such an arrangement of the lighting device 112 opposite the imagingsystem 110 can enable the lighting device 112 to backlight the animal sothat the imaging system 110 can capture a well-defined, contrasted imageof the animal.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 110 can also be used as ananimal detection device (e.g., the animal detection system 120). Forexample, the animal detection system 120 can include the imaging system110, which can be operated (e.g., continuously operated) to monitor thechute system 100. Once an animal is detected, for example, when theimaging system 110 (i.e., in conjunction with the control system 200)detects motion of an object (e.g., an animal) within the chute system, asignal can be sent to the control system 200 that begins processing ofthe animal. For example, in some cases, once motion an animal isdetected using the imaging system 110, the control system 200 can send asignal to the lighting device 112 to illuminate the animal so that animage can be captured and the animal's characteristics (e.g., weight)can be determined.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the chute system 100 includes animaging calibration system that can be used to set up and calibrate theimaging system 110 for properly capturing images of an animal positionedin the chute system 100. The imaging calibration system can be acomponent of the imaging system 110 or a separate component with whichthe imaging system 110 can interact for calibration. As discussed below,in some embodiments, the calibration system can include a calibrationblock mounted on one of the sidewalls that the imaging system view andanalyze for calibration.

The imaging system 110, alone or in combination with the control system200, is typically used to capture images of animals within the chute todetermine metrics associate with the animal. In particular, the imagingsystem 110 can capture a side view image (e.g., a three dimensionalimage) of an animal and, based on various algorithms executed by theimaging system 110 and/or the control system 200, estimate (e.g.,determine) the weight of the animal. Additional description and detailsrelating to the systems and methods for estimating an animal's weightbased on a side view image of the animal can be found in co-pending U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/984,249 filed Mar. 15, 2013 entitled“Method and System for Determining and Displaying Livestock Metrics” andidentified by Attorney Docket Number CRW-005, the contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

While the chute systems have been described generally as having oneimaging system 110 that can be used to analyze an animal present in achute system, other configurations are possible. For example, in someembodiments, the chute system includes more than one imaging system 110(e.g., two, three, four, five or more imaging systems) in communicationwith the control system 200 and/or the other imaging systems. Asillustrated in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, a chute system includes twoimaging systems 110, which can be positioned on the same side of ananimal to capture multiple side views of the animal for imageprocessing. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, one ormore imaging systems are positioned generally above the chute system inorder to obtain a top view image of the animal. For example, animalcharacteristics can be determined using a combination of one or moreside images and one or more top images of the animal in the chutesystem. Additional description and details related to this type of imageprocessing and characteristic detection can be found in co-pending U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/984,249 filed Mar. 15, 2013 entitled“Method and System for Determining and Displaying Livestock Metrics” andidentified by Attorney Docket Number CRW-005, the contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2, the animal injection system 180typically includes an injection unit 182 connected to one of the chutewalls (e.g., the first sidewall 102). The injection unit 182 can includeany of various devices configured to administer (e.g., inject) asubstance into an animal positioned in the chute system. For example,the injection unit 182 can include a syringe device, a repeatinginjector, a multi-dose syringe, or other systems or devices configuredto selectively inject a fluid into an animal, for example, in responseto a command from the control system 200.

As illustrated, the injection unit 182 can be connected to the chutewall via a connection mechanism (e.g., a robotic arm) 184. Theconnection mechanism 184 can be configured to selectively move towardand away from an animal positioned between the first sidewall 102 andthe second sidewall 104 during an injection procedure.

The animal injection system 180 is typically in communication with thecontrol system 200 to send and receive signals (e.g., injectioninstructions) based on signals received from one or more other systemsof the chute system 100. For example, in some embodiments, when ananimal enters the chute system 100 and the imaging system 110 capturesan image of the animal so that the animal's weight can be estimated(e.g., determined), an injection can be administered (based oninstructions from the control system 200) in response to the determinedweight of the animal. This can be beneficial since certain animals canbe administered certain types of medical injections only if they havegrown to a certain weight (e.g., a threshold weight). For example, ifthe chute system 100 determines that a pig positioned in the chuteweighs at least 100 lbs (e.g., by capturing an image of the pig andprocessing the image as described above), the animal injection system180 can inject the pig with certain substances (e.g., chemicalcastration substances). This can greatly increase the efficiency bywhich animals can be sorted and provided with necessary medications.

Referring back to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the chute system 100 hasan animal identification system 140 arranged along one of the chutewalls (e.g., the first sidewall 102). The animal identification system140 is configured to identify a particular animal that has entered thechute system 100. The animal identification system 140 can include oneor more of various types of devices including scanners, transponderdetectors, transceivers, or other types of suitable identificationdevices. For example, in some embodiments, the animal identificationsystem 140 includes a radio-frequency identification (RFID) reader thatis configured to communicate with and identify an RFID tag associatedwith an animal. For example, one or more animals in a particular area(e.g., within a pen or barn area) can each have their own RFID tag,which can be affixed to the animal, for example, affixed to the animal'sear or implanted under the animal's skin. Alternatively or additionally,in some embodiments, the animal identification system 140 can includedevices to read an identifying marking applied to the animal. Forexample, the animal identification system 140 can include visualidentification systems, such as barcode readers (e.g., a reader that canread a barcode or marking applied to the animal using a printer (e.g.,an ink jet barcode printer or a stain printer), for example, printersmanufactured by EBS Ink-Jet Systems USA, Inc of Libertyville, Ill.),configured to identify the animal based on markings applied to theanimal. Alternatively or additionally, the animal identification system140 can include a variety of other devices to read characters (e.g.,numbers or letters (e.g., identification numbers)) printed on an animal.In some cases, the animal identification system 140 is configured toread any of various other types of inks or stains (e.g., semi-permanentstains (e.g., 20-24 week stains) or permanent stains) that have beenapplied to an animal (e.g., using a printer). Alternatively, in someembodiments, a user can manually enter the identity of the animal (e.g.,by visual inspection of the animal or an identification tag on theanimal). For example, the animal identification can be associated withan animal's lot or identification number, age, sex, breed, marketclassification, domestic information relating to growth hormones, andany other pertinent information relating to the animal. As discussedabove, the animal identification system 140 is typically configured tocommunicate the animal identification to the control system 200 for usetherein.

The animal marking system 160, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, can also bedisposed along one of the chute walls (e.g., the first sidewall 102 inthe example illustrated) so that an animal within the chute system canbe marked for one or various purposes. The animal marking system 160 isconfigured to mark or otherwise tag animals in the chute system with avisual identifier (e.g., an identifying marking) so that they can bedistinguished from one another. For example, in some embodiments, theanimal marking system 160 can mark animals with different colored paintsor numbers for visual identification. In some embodiments, the animalmarking system 160 comprises a device (e.g., a barcode printer)configured to apply a barcode to the animal. In some examples, theanimal marking system 160 comprises a printer (e.g., an ink jet barcodeprinter or a stain printer), for example, printers manufactured by EBSInk-Jet Systems USA, Inc of Libertyville, Ill. In some cases, the animalmarking system 160 can apply a stain (e.g., a semi-permanent stain(e.g., a 20-24 week stain) or a permanent stain) to the animal. In someexamples, the animal marking system 160 comprises a device (e.g., aprinting device) configured to apply a string of characters (e.g., anidentification number) to the animal.

Such visual identifiers applied by the marking systems for tagging ormarking animals can be used for subsequent managing the animals (e.g.,feeding or sorting the animals). The visual identifiers can be appliedbased upon a determined weight of an animal as determined using theimaging system 110. For example, if an animal's weight is greater than apredetermined threshold weight, the animal marking system 160 can apply(e.g., spray) a predetermined indicator (e.g., a mark of a predeterminedcolored) on the animal to serve as a visual indicator that the animalhas achieved the threshold weight and can be dispositioned accordingly(e.g., to receive certain medical treatments, or proceed to processing(e.g., slaughter)).

In some embodiments, the animal marking system 160 includes a markingdevice (e.g., a painting device or barcode application device, asdescribed above) 162, which can be attached to the chute wall with aconnection mechanism (e.g., a robotic arm) 164. The connection mechanism164 is typically in communication with the control device 200 andconfigured to selectively move toward and away from an animal positionedin the chute system for marking the animal. The connection mechanism 164can include any of various systems or devices configured to move themarking device 162 and can be similar or substantially the same as theconnection mechanism 184 discussed above.

FIG. 5 schematically shows an exemplary embodiment of the control device200. As shown, the control device 200 typically includes a centralprocessing unit (CPU) 202, random access memory (RAM) 24, input/outputcircuitry 206 for connecting peripheral devices such as a non-transitorystorage medium 208 to a system bus 210, a display adapter 212 forconnecting the system bus 210 to a display device, a user interfaceadapter 214 for connecting user input devices, such as a keyboard, amouse, and/or a microphone, to the system bus 210, and a communicationadapter 216 for connecting the control device 200 to a network. In someembodiments, the communication adapter 216 is a wireless adapter. Thestorage medium 208 is configured to store, access, and modify a database220, and is preferably configured to store, access, and modifystructured or unstructured databases for data including, for example,relational data, tabular data, audio/video data, and graphical data.Embodiments of the control device 200 can include additional componentssuch as a high speed clock, analog to digital and digital to analogcircuitry, and buffer circuitry and devices for appropriate signalconditioning.

The central processing unit 202 is typically a general-purposemicroprocessor or central processing unit and has a set of controlalgorithms, comprising resident program instructions and calibrationsstored in the memory 204 and executed to provide the desired functions.As one skilled in the art would recognize, the central processing unit202 executes functions in accordance with any one of a number ofoperating systems including proprietary and open source systemsolutions. In some embodiments, an application program interface (API)is preferably executed by the operating system for computer applicationsto make requests of the operating system or other computer applications.The description of the central processing unit 202 is meant to beillustrative, and not restrictive to the disclosure, and those skilledin the art would appreciate that the disclosure may also be implementedon platforms and operating systems other than those mentioned.

In some embodiments, the input/output circuitry 206 includes variousconnection ports for connecting the animal detection system 120, theimaging system 110, the injection system 180, various sensors, theanimal identification system 140, and/or the animal marking system 160.In some embodiments, the animal detection system 120, the imaging system110, the injection system 180, various sensors, the animalidentification system 140, and/or the animal marking system 160 arenetwork enabled components configured to communicate via thecommunication adapter 216.

As discussed above, the chute system can be carried out in any ofvarious configurations having any number of various combinations ofcomponents and systems. Referring to FIGS. 6-8, in some embodiments, achute system 300 can include a frame structure that generally serves asa mounting location for the various systems and components of the chutesystem. As illustrated, the frame structure can be formed of a firstsidewall 302, a second sidewall 304, and an end wall 306. Each of thesidewalls can include one or more of the various features orcompositions described above with respect to the sidewalls of the chutesystem 100 (e.g., the first sidewall 102, the second sidewall 104,and/or the end wall 106).

As illustrated, the first sidewall 302 and the end wall 306 can be inthe form of one or more tubular members that are interconnected, forexample, using fasteners or connections using welding or adhesives. Insome examples, the tubular members are formed of stainless steel. Insome cases, hollow, tubular members are used so that various wiring(e.g., wiring that interconnects the various systems) can be packagedand arranged within the tubular member to limit interference or damage.The second sidewall 304, as discussed above, can be in the form of agenerally flat sheet of material (e.g., sheet metal) to limit the animalfrom traversing the second sidewall 304. Similar to the chute system100, the positioning and configuration of the first and second sidewallsis such that an animal that enters the chute system 300 is typicallyconsistently positioned within chute system 300 so that consistentimages of the animal can be captured for processing, such as determiningcharacteristics of the animal (e.g., weight of the animal).

While certain frame structures have been described and illustrated,other configurations are possible. For example, in some cases the chutesystem 300 does not include an end wall. That is, in some aspects, thechute systems can include a positioning device (e.g., the angledsidewall) and a datum structure that define an animal walkway throughwhich an animal can pass. As discussed herein, the animal can be imagedso that metrics (e.g., weight) can be estimated.

The chute system 300 can also include an animal anti-loitering device305, which can include one or more devices or components that limit(e.g., prevent) an animal from remaining within the chute system 300 forextended periods of time (e.g., substantially longer time than requiredto determine characteristics associated with the animal). For example,in some embodiments, the animal anti-loitering device 305 includes astrip-like member that can be affixed to a floor surface between thefirst and second sidewalls and protrude upward. The animalanti-loitering device 305 is generally positioned so that the animal inthe chute system can place their feet (e.g., hooves) on both sides ofthe anti-loitering device 305 (e.g., their right feet on the right sideand their left feet on the left side). However, since the anti-loiteringdevice 305 protrudes upward from a floor surface on which it is mounted,an animal is typically discouraged from lying on the floor between thefirst and second sidewall. This is expected to limit (e.g., prevent)animals from excessively laying in the chute system, which could resultin other animals being unable to be processed by the chute system.

The chute system 300 includes one or more systems that can besubstantially similar to the various systems described above withrespect to the chute system 100 for determining characteristics of theanimal. For example, in some embodiments, the chute system 300 includesan imaging system 310, an animal detection system 320, an animalidentification system 340, and an animal marking system 360, which allcan be in communication (e.g., wired or wireless communication) with acontrol system (e.g., a control system similar to the control system 200discussed above) 400. In some embodiments, the chute system 300 alsoincludes an animal injection system, as discussed above, which is notillustrated in FIGS. 6-8.

The imaging system 310 can generally include one or more of the variouscomponents or features described above with respect to the imagingsystem 110. For example, the imaging system 310 can include an imagingdevice (e.g., a camera device) 312 that is configured to capture imagesof an animal positioned between the first and second sidewalls. In somecases, the imaging device 312 includes a three-dimensional camera (e.g.,a camera device having a VGA video camera and a depth sensor (e.g.,having an infrared projector and a monochrome CMOS sensor)) configuredto capture a three-dimensional image of an animal positioned in thechute system 300. For example, in some embodiments, the Kinect® cameradevice from Microsoft®, camera sensor devices by PrimeSense of LosAltos, Calif., or camera sensor devices by Point Grey Research Inc ofRichmond, BC, Canada can be used to capture images of the animal. Thethree-dimensional image can be used by the imaging system 310 and/or thecontrol system 400 to determine (e.g., estimate) characteristics (e.g.,weight) of the animal in the chute system 300, as discussed above. Asmentioned above, in some embodiments, the chute system includes morethan one (e.g., two, three, four, or more) imaging systems 310 (orimaging devices 312) which can be used in combination to determine thecharacteristics of the animal.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, the imaging system 310 alsoincludes a calibration device (e.g., a calibration block or a stick of aknown size and position relative to other components of the chute system(e.g., the first or second sidewall)) 314 that can be used for settingup and calibrating the imaging device 312. Such an object can beprocessed in 3D to determine to the location of the chute systemrelative to the imaging system 310. For example, in some embodiments,the calibration block can include a visual pattern including a seriesblack and white images (e.g., squares or stripes) that, when viewed bythe imaging device, enables the imaging system 310 to determine itsposition relative to the calibration block 314 and therefore also theframe structure of the chute system 300. Such a calibration techniquetypically enables simpler and less precise (e.g., less complex andexpensive) positioning and orientation of the imaging device 312 (e.g.,the direction in which the camera is aimed) than may otherwise berequired if the imaging device would need to be accurately set uppositioned relative to the frame structure without further calibrationtechniques.

As mentioned above with respect to the imaging system 110, the imagingsystem 310 can also include one or more illumination devices configuredto generate and direct light towards an animal in the chute system inany of various different configurations. For example, in someembodiments, the illumination devices are used to illuminate the side ofthe animal of which the image is being taken. Additionally oralternatively, the illumination devices can be used to backlight theanimal for imaging.

The animal detection system 320 (illustrated more particularly in FIGS.7 and 8) can be similar to the animal detection system 120 discussedabove with respect to the chute system 100. For example, as illustrated,the animal detection system 320 can include a feeder switch connected toan animal feeder (e.g., a drinking nipple) 326 arranged along the endwall 306. As illustrated, the animal feeder 326 can be fluidly connectedto a fluid line 328 that is connected to an external fluid source (e.g.,a water tank or reservoir). Similar to the animal detection system 120,the animal detection system 320 can include a feeder switch (e.g., aflow switch arranged within the fluid line 328) that, when an animaldrinks from the animal feeder 326, a signal is sent to the controlsystem 400 to indicate that an animal is present within the chute system300.

Alternatively or additionally, in some cases, the imaging system 310 canbe used as an animal detection system. For example, as discussed above,the imaging device 312 can be automatically operated periodically orsubstantially continuously (e.g., continuously) and when an animal isdetected in the chute system 300 (e.g., when motion is detected withinthe field-of-view of the imaging device 312), the control system 400 candetermine that an animal is present within the chute system to beginprocessing. In some examples, once an animal is detected, the controlsystem 400 can instruct one or more illumination devices to illuminatethe chute system 300 and instruct the imaging device 312 to capture animage for processing.

The animal identification system 340 is configured to identify one ormore animals within the chute system 300 based on any number ofdifferent factors or criteria, as discussed above with respect to theanimal identification system 140. In some embodiments, the animaldetection system 340 includes at least an information reading device,such as a wireless reading device (e.g., an RFID reading device) that isconfigured to communicate with (e.g., read) information tags (e.g., RFIDtags) affixed in or on different animals. For example, animals can havean RFID tag attached to one or more parts of their bodies (e.g., theirears). The animal identification system 340 is in communication with thecontrol system 400 so that the control system 400 can know when aparticular animal is in the chute system 300 (e.g., as a result of thedetection system 340 reading an RFID tag associated with the animal) andcan associate the determined characteristics with the particular animal.In some cases, the control system 400 can, either on its own or inconnection with an external computing system, track characteristics ofanimals, as well as track various markings applied to the animal orinjections administered to the animals using the chute system 300 orother devices.

While the animal identification system 340 has generally been describedas having an RFID system, other configurations and devices are possible,for example, at least those described above with respect to the animalidentification system 140. For example, in some embodiments, the animalidentification system can identify the animal by reading an identifyingmarking (e.g., characters (e.g., text or numbers) or barcodes appliedonto the animal (e.g., on the side of a pig)) using the animal markingsystem, for example, using a writing device, such as those by EBSInk-Jet Systems (e.g., a ink jet system or a device to apply a stain tothe animal). Alternatively or additionally, in some cases, the imagingsystem (e.g., imaging system 110 or imaging system 310) can serve as theanimal identification system, for example, by reading such characters orbarcode applied to the animal. For example, in some cases, using one ofvarious commonly used optical character recognition (OCR) techniques,the imaging device can read the characters used as an identifier whenthe characters are unique to the animal.

The animal marking system 360 can include any of various systems ordevices configured to apply a marking (e.g., an identifying marking) toan animal (e.g., along the animal's skin) while the animal is positionedwithin the chute system 300. For example, the animal marking system 360can include one or more of at least the various devices discussed abovewith respect with to the animal marking system 160. For example, in someembodiments, the animal marking system 360 comprises a device (e.g., abarcode printer) configured to apply a barcode or other characters tothe animal. In some examples, the animal marking system 360 comprises aprinter (e.g., an ink jet barcode printer or a stain application device(e.g., stain printer)), for example, printers manufactured by EBSInk-Jet Systems USA, Inc of Libertyville, Ill. In some cases, the animalmarking system 360 can apply a stain (e.g., a semi-permanent stain(e.g., a 20-24 week stain) or a permanent stain) to the animal. In somecases, the animal marking system 360 can apply a string of characters(e.g., an identification number) to the animal.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 6-8 (more particularly inFIG. 7), the animal marking system 360 can include a marking device(e.g., the barcode printer or stain application device) 362 including amarking nozzle (e.g., a movable or articulating nozzle) 363 that isconnected to the frame using a connection mechanism (e.g., anarticulating rack device) 364. In some cases, the connection mechanism364 is in the form of an electromechanical articulating device (e.g.,electromagnetic device) or a pneumatic articulating device incommunication with the control system 400 to move the marking nozzle363.

In some embodiments, the marking nozzle 363 includes a paint sprayerthat is configured to apply a paint marking to an animal within thechute system 300. The marking nozzle 363 can be connected to a reservoir(e.g., a paint tank) 366 that supplies paint to be used to mark ananimal. In some cases, as discussed above with respect to the chutesystem 100, when an animal enters the chute system and a characteristicof the animal (e.g., weight) is obtained, a corresponding mark can beapplied based on the characteristic. For example, animals of a certainthreshold weight can be marked so that they can be separated from otheranimals in a common pen.

The chute system 300 can also include an animal injection system, whichis not illustrated in FIGS. 6-8. The animal injection systems used withthe chute system 300 can include at least one or more of the variouscomponents and features described above with the respect to the animalinjection system 180 of chute system 100.

The chute systems described herein (e.g., the chute system 100, thechute system 300, or any suitable combination of any of the componentsdescribed in these examples) can typically be used in a pen or otheranimal loitering area. In this way, animals typically do not need to becorralled, pushed, or forcefully guided into the chute. The chute systemis configured to enable animals to move in and out freely, reducingstress on the animals and decreasing labor workload for the farm. Whenthe animal enters the chute system, an animal identification system(e.g., the identification system 140 or the identification system 340)can identify the animal (e.g., by reading an RFID tag) and communicatethe identification information to a control system (e.g., the controlsystem 200 or the control system 400). The animal detection system candetect the animal being properly positioned within the chute system(e.g., as a result of the animal feeding from the feeder 126 or thefeeder 326), a switch (e.g., the feeder switch 122) can be triggered andthe animal's presence can be indicated to the control system. Thecontrol system can then instruct an imaging system (e.g., the imagingsystem 110 or the imaging system 310) to capture an image of the animaland transmit the image information to the control system for storage andanalysis (e.g., to determine an animal weight and/or mass characteristicmetric). For example, a three-dimensional image of an animal profile maybe captured and transmitted to the control system. The control systemcan then determine a mass or weight of the animal based upon thethree-dimensional image. Additionally, upon detection and indication ofthe animal's presence, the control system can monitor various otherdevices or sensors to measure various other animal metrics, such astemperature. In addition to obtaining animal metrics, the chute systemmay also mark an animal or execute a fluid injection. For example, ananimal marking device (e.g., the marking device 160 or the markingdevice 360) can mark or otherwise tag each animal with an identifier asit exits the system or while the animal is feeding. For example, asdiscussed above, the animal marking device can mark the exiting animalswith different color paints for visual identification. In someembodiments, the animal marking device can add electronic information toelectronic ear tags (RFID tags) on the animals, can add visualinformation to non-electronic ear tags on the animals, or can provideother identifiers by which individual animals can be identified later.Such identification devices for tagging or marking animals are known inthe art and can be used for later managing, feeding, and sorting theindividual animals.

Additionally, as described herein above, the chute system may administermedicines, topical insecticides, anti-parasite drugs, and other fluidsinto an animal based upon the animal identification. Injection schedulesmay be indexed in the control system and associated with particularanimals or groups of animals. When an animal enters the chute system andan animal identification system (e.g., the identification system 140 orthe identification system 340) identifies the animal (e.g., by readingan RFID tag), the control system may then control an animal injectionsystem (e.g., the injection system 180, for example, using theconnection mechanism (e.g., the robotic arm) 184.

Once analysis of the animal is complete, the animal can voluntarily exitthe chute system, for example, by walking out. In some cases, since thechute system is typically open ended, the animal may exit the chutesystem before processing is complete, so the control system may remember(e.g., by storing to data) the amount of processing that has beencompleted so that when the animal re-enters the chute system, processingmay resume accordingly.

While the chute systems have generally been described and illustrated asstructure having two sidewalls and an end wall so that an animal canwalk into and out of the chute from the same entryway area, otherconfigurations are possible. For example, as mentioned above, the chutesystem can include a structure having two sidewalls but not an end wallso that the animal can walk into the chute system through one opening,be analyzed, and then leave the chute system through another opening atanother region of the chute system.

While the datum structure has been generally illustrated and describedas being a wall (e.g., a sidewall) of the frame structure, otherconfigurations are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the datumstructure can include other obstructions, structures, or componentsarranged in the vicinity of the angled positioning member. In somecases, the datum structure can be a component of a different structure,such as a wall or fence of an adjacent pen or building. Additionally oralternatively, the datum structure can include a low structure (e.g.,fence-like or ledge structure) spaced away from the angled positioningmember. That is, the datum structure need not be a tall wall thatextends to above the height of the animal. Additionally, in someembodiments, the datum structure does not extend upwardly from the floorsurface. For example, in some embodiments, the datum structure can besuspended and hang adjacent to the area in which the animal is directedto stand. In some cases, the datum structure can hang from a ceilingarea. Alternatively or additionally, in some cases, the datum structurecan be coupled to the positioning member (e.g., the opposite sidewall)using a structure above where the animal is directed to stand so thatthe datum structure can hang adjacent to the animal positioning area. Insome cases, the datum structure can include the animal anti-loiteringdevice which can limit where the animal can stand within the chutesystem. For example, in some examples, the anti-loitering device can bean element extending upwardly from a floor surface in between theanimal's legs to limit where the animal can stand and walk through thechute system. In some cases, the datum structure can include anotherelement or material extending upwardly from a floor surface (e.g., alonga central region of the floor surface). In some cases, the upwardlyextending datum structure can include an angled (e.g., triangular)structure, which can be arranged between an animal's legs when it is inthe chute system.

Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the datum structurecan include one or more thin members obstructing the animal'spositioning relative to the positioning member. For example, the thinmember can include a rope or wire (e.g., barbed wire) that helps toobstruct or confine the animal within the chute system.

Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the datum structurecan be at least partially defined by one or more surfaces of a channel,ditch, trough, dug-out section, tray, or other formed near or adjacentto the angled positioning member.

Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the datum structurecan include a second angled positioning member disposed across from thefirst angled positioning member. For example, in some cases, the chutesystem can include two angled sidewalls that are positioned at anangular bias away from one another relative to the floor surface. Forexample, the two sidewalls can form a v-like channel between which theanimal can walk. In some cases, the both of the angled positioningmembers can include imaging systems so that more than one image of theanimal (e.g., an image of both sides of the animal) can be captured.

While various embodiments have been described herein, it should beunderstood that they have been presented and described by way of exampleonly, and do not limit the claims presented herewith to any particularconfigurations or structural components. Thus, the breadth and scope ofa preferred embodiment should not be limited by any of theabove-described exemplary structures or embodiments, but should bedefined only in accordance with the following claims and theirequivalents.

What is claimed:
 1. An animal positioning system comprising: apositioning member positioned relative to a datum structure, thepositioning member being configured to limit an available spacing alonga floor surface between the positioning member and the datum structure,the positioning member being arranged at an angular bias away from thedatum structure relative to a floor surface and being configured topermit unobstructed viewing of a body of an animal positioned in theavailable spacing.
 2. The animal positioning system of claim 1 whereinthe positioning system is configured to permit the animal to voluntarilyenter and exit the available spacing.
 3. The animal positioning systemof claim 1 wherein the positioning system is open-ended.
 4. The animalpositioning system of claim 3 wherein the positioning system isopen-ended at two ends.
 5. The animal positioning system of claim 1wherein the datum structure comprises a first wall structure and thepositioning member comprises a second wall structure.
 6. The animalpositioning system of claim 5 wherein the second wall structure ispositioned at an angular bias away from the first wall structurerelative to the floor surface to permit the unobstructed viewing of thebody of the animal positioned in the available spacing.
 7. The animalpositioning system of claim 6 wherein the second wall structurecomprises a plate-like element configured to limit the animal fromtraversing the second wall structure.
 8. The animal positioning systemof claim 6 wherein the angular bias comprises the second wall structurebeing arranged at an angle that is 100 degrees to 145 degrees relativeto the floor surface.
 9. The animal positioning system of claim 8wherein the angular bias comprises the second wall structure beingarranged at an angle that is 120 degrees to 135 degrees relative to thefloor surface.
 10. The animal positioning system of claim 5 wherein apositioning of a lower region of the first sidewall relative to a lowerregion of the second sidewall limits more than one animal from enteringthe chute system at a particular time.
 11. The animal positioning systemof claim 10 wherein a spacing between the lower region of the firstsidewall and the lower region of the second sidewall is associated witha typical width of a type of animal entering the chute system.
 12. Theanimal positioning system of claim 10 wherein the positioning of thelower portion of the first sidewall relative to the lower portion of thesecond sidewall limits the animal's ability to position itself relativeto an imaging device of the positioning system.
 13. The animalpositioning system of claim 1, further comprising an imaging systemconfigured to capture an image of the body of the animal positioned inthe available spacing via the unobstructed viewing.
 14. The animalpositioning system of claim 13, further comprising a control system incommunication with the imaging system.
 15. The animal positioning systemof claim 13, further comprising an animal detection system configured todetermine that the animal is positioned in the available spacing forimaging by the imaging system.
 16. The animal positioning system ofclaim 15 wherein the animal detection system comprises one or morecomponents of the imaging system.
 17. The animal positioning system ofclaim 15 wherein the animal detection system comprises a deviceconfigured to be activated by the animal feeding from the device. 18.The animal positioning system of claim 1, further comprising an animalidentification system configured to identify the animal positioned inthe available spacing based on an identifying feature associated withthe animal.
 19. The animal positioning system of claim 18 wherein theanimal identification system comprises a wireless data reading device.20. The animal positioning system of claim 1, further comprising ananimal injection system configured to administer a substance to theanimal.
 21. The animal positioning system of claim 1, further comprisingan animal marking system configured to apply a mark to the animalassociated with a characteristic of the animal.
 22. The animalpositioning system of claim 21 wherein the animal marking systemcomprises a device configured to apply an identifying marking to theanimal.
 23. The animal positioning system of claim 1 wherein the datumstructure comprises a second positioning member biased away from thefirst positioning member.
 24. A livestock animal chute comprising: aframe structure; an animal positioning area defined by: a datumstructure; and a sidewall of the frame structure disposed relative tothe datum structure, the sidewall being angled relative to a floorsurface to enable a field of view of the animal positioning area; ananimal detection system configured to determine when an animal ispositioned in the animal positioning area; an imaging system positionedrelative to the frame structure configured to capture an image of ananimal in the animal positioning area; and a control system configuredto i) operate the imaging system and the animal detection system and ii)estimate a weight of the animal based on the image captured by theimaging system.
 25. A method for estimating a characteristic associatedwith an animal, the method comprising: determining the animal's presencewithin a target area of an animal positioning system having a datumstructure and a positioning member positioned relative to the datumstructure, the positioning member being arranged at an angular bias awayfrom the datum structure relative to a floor surface and beingconfigured to permit unobstructed viewing of a body of an animalpositioned in the available spacing; responsive to determining theanimal's presence within the target area, capturing an image of theanimal; and processing the image to estimate the characteristicassociated with the animal.
 26. The method of claim 25, wherein thecharacteristic comprises a weight of the animal.
 27. The method of claim25, further comprising identifying the animal according to identifyinginformation associated with the animal.
 28. The method of claim 25,further comprising, responsive to determining that the characteristicmeets a threshold characteristic level, administering a substance to theanimal.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein administering a substancecomprising injecting the animal with a substance.
 30. The method ofclaim 25, further comprising, responsive to determining that thecharacteristic meets a threshold characteristic level, applying anidentifying mark to the animal.